By John Egbokhan

Akwa United have made a winning start to their Naija Super 8 tournament, beating Yobe Desert Stars 2-1 in a Group B game at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.

Akwa United broke the deadlock after 34 minutes, Chikwuebuka Anthony sending a powerful header into the net from James Ajako’s delivery from a corner kick. The goal left Yobe Desert Stars goalkeeper Isa Ismail helpless as the wild card entrants from Akwa Ibom state got their noses in front.

This was Anthony’s first goal for Akwa United since joining from Rangers of Enugu.

The opener propelled Akwa United to go for more as Cyril Olisema scored the second goal three minutes shy of half time, with an exquisite finish from outside the box.

Fatai Osho’s side had a chance to go three goals up after 50 minutes as Salomon Chigoziem beat two defenders and got into the box but he was brought down and the referee awarded a penalty, which Cyril Olisema failed to convert.

Yobe Desert Stars attempted a fightback on 55 minutes, Emmanuel James cutting the deficit to one as he
sent a low free kick into the bottom corner of the net of goalkeeper Jean Afala.

Despite four minutes of added time, Akwa United held on to make a winning start in Naija Super 8.